Build quality.
The general quality of construction, design, etc. of a product. How well it’s built.
Build quality is not an easily or objectively defined concept but it refers, generally speaking, to how well designed and constructed the product actually is from a subjective point of view. This includes factors such as reliability, sturdiness, fit and finish (if the product appears smoothly made and polished or is rough and ready), quality of materials and so on. A cheap lens might have a focussing ring which feels rough and gritty when it turns. A better lens might have a focussing ring which rotates smoothly and silkily.
On the whole, build quality in cameras, lenses and other photographic devices tends to be directly related to how expensive it is. And equipment aimed at an amateur market tends to have lower build quality than equipment aimed at a professional market. But as always, there are exceptions either way.
cf. amateur, consumer, professional.
Entry last updated 2002-04-30. Term 165 of 1487.
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